The perfect running shorts to wear on training runs or races of any distance.
Choosing shorts for regular running sessions or more competitive races is often a matter of personal preference. Do you prefer close-fitting shorts or a more relaxed cut? Ultra-light and minimalist, or do you want a cargo option that has you covered?
To bring you the best, we tested a variety of running shorts over a variety of distances, from 5Ks to ultramarathons, on the treadmill, in outdoor training sessions, and at competitive events. To fully understand my findings, please read this article.
These are the best running shorts I tested
The inov8 Race Elite 5-inch shorts are the best running shorts I’ve tested. It offers race-ready performance with lightweight comfort and plenty of coverage, making it suitable for both training and gym workouts. Perforated panels and a silky soft boxer liner increase comfort, while a wide waistband ensures stability.
Other running shorts recommendations
1. inov8 race elite 5 inch short
The inov8 Race Elite 5-inch certainly feels race-ready, but it’s also a handy choice for logging training miles or practicing leg drills at the gym. In our testing, we found it struck the ideal balance between a lightweight, barely-there feel and confident coverage. The inov8 5-inch short is perfect for confident long-distance runs.
We also found that the perforated panels keep air flowing and wick away sweat, and the silky soft boxer liner with flat seams increases comfort. Soft, wide waistband prevents rolling and reduces pressure. Storage is a little low for me, but it has enough room for a large smartphone and a handful of gels, and it even has a key loop.
2. Satisfied with Rippy 3 inch trail short
The premium Satisfy Rippy Short offers a minimalist racing feel and some great technical features for great performance on the track. If you can stomach the stratospheric prices, you’re a winner.
We found these shorts to be light, breathable, comfortable, and surprisingly quick-drying thanks to the durable ripstop fabric. Surprisingly, for a short 3-inch length, it has four convenient pockets. This includes two hooded drop-in pockets that can hold up to six gels, and a zippered sweat-proof phone pocket on the back.
If you’re brave enough to spend more than $200 on a pair, you can take the plunge and get a bold leopard print.
3. About the lightweight 7 inch short
On’s ultra-light 7-inch shorts have an athletic cut that allowed plenty of freedom of movement during testing. We also appreciated the perforated back for increased ventilation and ventilation.
Despite the incredibly light and thin material, the quality of the shorts was immediately noticeable. The fabric is soft and stretchy, yet feels durable with comfort and security.
The On Running Lightweight Shorts provide an almost non-existent feel for long distance runs and mixed terrain. This is unusual for 7 inch shorts, However, our testing has shown that it is most comfortable to wear in hot or humid environments. Although it is very lightweight, it is not lacking in features. However, if you need multiple pockets, you may need to look elsewhere.
4. SUDU SRS 01 Run Shorts
SUDU’s SRS 01 Run Shorts combine comfort and functionality with lightweight fabric and thoughtful storage. Overall, we think it offers durability and comfort at a competitive price and is a great choice for versatile running and general workouts.
Whether it’s a long run or a session at the gym, it offers reliability and performance, making it a worthy investment for casual runners looking for quality gear. However, be aware of the snug sizing and the occasional rotation of the leg cuffs.
5. Adidas Adizero Control Running Short Tights
I found these shorts to be perfect for short, fast sessions and intervals on the track. But it’s almost impossible to say whether they improved my efficiency. During several test sessions, I reached interval splits. There were times when it wasn’t.
But if you want running shorts that fit like a second skin, these shorts are great at supporting and keeping everything in place. And even if it takes more than the meager gains advertised here to get you there, at least you’ll feel like an Olympian.
6. Lululemon License To Train Lined 7 Inch Short
Lululemon’s License to Train lined 7-inch shorts are durable yet comfortable to wear for long periods of time. From my own experience, I think hiking trails can be just as effective as the gym.
I found the Lycra/Luxtreme lining to be a snug fit and function like compression tights. In testing, the outer layer also felt soft and well-structured. This robustness means that while it’s not the lightest 7-inch option, it’s one of the most versatile.
The shorts are packed with features such as a reversible drawcord waistband, elasticated secret pockets, and split exterior seams, which provided ample range of motion during our testing.
7. Satisfy TechSilk 5 inch short
If you want shorts that can cover the essentials of a day of trail running, look no further than Satisfy (and don’t worry about the price). TechSilk’s 5-inch shorts have two hand pockets and two internal sweat-proof pockets for storing your phone or other valuables. Strong and soft technical 2-way stretch silk fabric reduces weight to just 4.2oz / 120g, yet incorporates a hybrid inner design with silky boxer-style briefs for ultra-comfortable wear I’m doing it.
I found that it has the highest sweat absorption and drying properties, making it ideal for hot, sweaty summer runs. Technical details, premium materials, and stylish embellishments all mean a hefty price tag, but investing in a pair can reap big benefits in comfort and performance.
8. Brooks Sherpa 5 Inch 2-in-1 Short
A longer 5-inch version of Brooks’ classic race-fit Sherpa 3-inch split shorts, it combines the same silky, lightweight 4-way stretch shell outer with perforated inner shorts, both of which provide secure underfoot coverage. Cover.
The soft, sweat-wicking liner has flat, chafe-free seams and countless holes, making them the coolest and most comfortable shorts I’ve tested. Two large drop-in mesh pockets cover most storage needs, and a wide, soft waistband won’t wrap or pinch around your waist.
How long should I wear running shorts?
Running shorts tend to be categorized by inseam length, typically 3, 5, or 7 inches. Choosing the ideal length depends on the type of running you plan to do. For competitive runs, sprint sessions, and long-distance training, there’s nothing quite like the last-minute feel of 3-inch shorts. Split seams allow for the most freedom of movement and best breathability, but may not be the wisest choice if you’re stopping at a cafe after your run.
For mixed sessions, trail runs, or day-long excursions where you want to carry the essentials, consider the 5-inch or 7-inch. 5-inch shorts tend to combine the benefits of a lightweight lace cut and freedom of movement with clever storage options and improved coverage. 7 inches is the heaviest, but provides the best coverage and storage options.
No matter which shorts you choose for running, the best running shorts have a few things in common.
What to consider when choosing the best running shorts
Flexible movement Not too tight or too loose Made of comfortable material Flat, chafe-free seams Excellent breathability Quick drying and moisture wicking Can hold gels, keys, cards or mobile phone
What experts look for in the best running shorts
We spoke to athletes and coaches about what they look for in a good pair of running shorts. Jake Dearden, HYROX Master Trainer and 247 Represent Head Coach and Athlete said: This prevents foot chafing, but is cool enough not to overheat.
“The back, just below the waistband, is for when you’re out for a run and don’t want to carry your phone around or have something around your chest or arm to hold it. It should be large enough to hold your phone.
“The waistband should have an adjustable drawstring. The liner should be comfortable and ideally prevent chafing (such as on 2-in-1 shorts). It should be long enough to prevent thigh chafing. You can always apply a rubbing cream to prevent that.”
Johnny Mellor, New Balance Athlete and Online Running Coach, added:It’s important to choose shorts with quick-drying technology, such as NB DRYx, to wick moisture away from your body. If you’re on a long run and want to carry your gels with you, New Balance’s half tights have pockets on each side that are perfect for carrying your gels. It also has a zipper pocket perfect for carrying your car keys. To make my daily runs easier, I like to wear something a little looser and lighter.
“If you want to carry your gel around, half-tights are the way to go. If it’s just a set of keys, shorts with a zippered pocket are key. Personally, I don’t notice that it’s swinging, so I keep it in the back of my shorts.” However, this is also a matter of personal preference, so you may prefer to use a running belt instead.
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